Are Vampires Marxists? Examining Vampire: The Masquerade

I analyze the world of Vampire: The Masquerade through a Marxist lens. I begin with a short discussion of the history of the game and the setting. Next I cover the basics of Marxist theory. Then I cram them both together and see what happens. I wrap up with a few thoughts on vampire fiction in general.

Notes:

1:00 - Just a friendly joke. Absolutely no offense intended towards LARPers. It's actually something I could see myself getting into if I ever had the time.

1:30 - Not sure how common this phrase is. By "flawed gem" I mean a game that I consider great despite obvious problems or bugs.

2:33 - Begin background on the game's setting and story.

15:09 - Basics of Marxism

19:00 - The analysis. What does Marxism say about Vampire: The Masquerade?

21:02 - Gramsci is an interesting figure and well worth reading if you're interested in Marxist theory. I always found him more accessible and an easier read than Marx or Lenin.

22:44 - For more on Lenin's views on colonialism and World War I, a good place to start is his essay Imperialism, the Highest Stage of Capitalism. 

30:04 - Leon Trotsky was a prominent Marxist thinker and leader in the Russian Revolution. After Lenin's death, Trotsky lost a power-struggle with Stalin and went into exile. He was later assassinated in Mexico (ice axe to the head). You may also find it interesting to know that he had an affair with Frida Kahlo. 

30:24 - No need to know these terms. Just wanted to throw out some funny-sounding names. Also, I take any opportunity to say "anarcho-syndicalist" outside of quoting Monty Python.